ACU’s softball team is headed back to Lubbock this weekend to play in the Jeannine McHaney Memorial Classic. After the cancellation last weekend because of weather, the Wildcats will get a second chance to play against Texas Tech on Sunday.
Other teams who will participate in the tournament include the University of Northern Colorado and the University of Texas at Arlington.
Texas Tech currently ranks fourth in the Big XII Conference and has an overall record of 13-6. Senior Coutney Flanary is mentally preparing to taking on the Big XII school.
“I am definitely looking forward to the opportunity to see how we line up with a Big XII team,” Flanary said. “Last weekend we played four games on their field and had a chance to watch a few of their games, so we know what to expect. It should be a good game.”
ACU’s softball team has been on the road for the past few weeks and have faced quality teams. Needless to say, the Wildcats know the importance of staying focused and what it takes to maintain their game. Flanary said she knows how to handle the commitment it takes to balance a busy schedule full of traveling.
“There is no better feeling than going to another team’s field and winning,” Flanary said. ” We have been traveling for the last few weeks and I do think all of the hours on the bus and missing out on class time can effect us if we let it. The last few weeks we’ve been in a hotel for at least three nights a week and have not got back to Abilene until late Sunday night. It’s all about staying mentally tough.”
The Wildcats own a 4-12 record and have struggled recently with being consistent on the field. The weather has also been difficult this season, causing practices to be altered.
“Most of our mistakes come from our defense,” senior Lyndi Smith said. “We haven’t been able to practice outside lately because of the weather, so it has been hard to make adjustments. I think that’s where we are hurting right now.”
The Wildcats look forward to making their mark this weekend as the tournament kicks off Friday against Northern Colorado at 12:30 p.m. The game Saturday against University of Texas at Arlington is scheduled for noon. Sunday, the Wildcats will take on Texas Tech at 3 p.m.
